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Urinary Tract Infection
UTI
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is not necessarily a sexually transmitted infection. All behaviors, including sex play, that bring fecal material into contact with the vagina and urethra may cause a UTI. UTIs infect the urinary system, including the bladder, ureters (the tubes that lead from the kidneys to the bladder), and the urethra. Even though UTIs are very common, they should be taken seriously. Severe cases of UTIs, left untreated, may cause kidney infection.
To avoid UTIs, keep the pubic area clean and dry. Urinate as soon as you feel the urge and drink water when you are thirsty. Avoid shared contact with the vagina and the anus.
Common Symptoms
- Burning pain during urination
- An urge to urinate when your bladder is nearly empty or feeling like you need to urinate all the time, especially at night
- Difficulty controlling when you urinate
- Lower abdominal pain or back pain
- Blood and/or pus in your urine
- Fever
Testing and Treatment
Testing and treatment for urinary tract infections is available at all PPIN health center locations.
- Testing: A urinalysis is used to diagnose a UTI.
- Treatment: UTIs are treated with an antibiotic that will clear the infection.
Reduce your risk: Practice safer sex!
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Trichomoniasis ("Trich")
